Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portuguese Kale Soup, also known as “Caldo Verde,” is a hearty, comforting dish filled with tender kale, smoky sausage, and creamy potatoes in a flavorful broth. This classic soup is simple yet deeply satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or chilly nights. With its rich tradition and flexible ingredients, you can easily add creative twists to make it your own.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

potatoeskale (preferably curly or lacinato)chorizo or linguica sausagesoniongarlicolive oilchicken or vegetable brothsaltblack peppercrushed red pepper flakes (optional)bay leaf

directions

Best Portuguese Kale Soup: Classic Recipe with Creative Twists

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add sliced sausage and cook until browned.

Peel and dice the potatoes, then add them to the pot along with the bay leaf.

Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.

Mash some of the potatoes in the pot to create a thicker consistency.

Add the chopped kale and simmer for another 10 minutes until tender.

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Remove bay leaf and serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 40 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Swap chorizo for spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, earthy taste.

Add white beans for extra protein and texture.

Include a splash of white wine while cooking the onions for a richer broth.

Top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving for enhanced flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Portuguese Kale Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

What type of kale is best for Portuguese Kale Soup?

Curly kale or lacinato (dinosaur) kale works best due to their hearty texture.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth; add beans for extra heartiness.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, slice and add it after the onions are cooked to avoid overcooking.

How thick should the soup be?

It should be brothy but with enough mashed potatoes to give it body.

Is Portuguese Kale Soup spicy?

Traditionally it’s mild, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots and celery are great additions without straying far from tradition.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely! It tastes even better after the flavors have melded overnight.

Should I remove the kale stems?

Yes, remove the tough stems for a more tender and pleasant texture.

What bread goes best with this soup?

Rustic sourdough or a Portuguese cornbread called “broa” pairs beautifully.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the aromatics first, then cook everything on low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

Portuguese Kale Soup is a soulful dish that brings warmth, tradition, and incredible flavor to your table. With its simple base and room for creative twists, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Whether sticking to the classic or experimenting with new flavors, this soup is sure to satisfy and impress.